Between 6-12 May 2025, three incidents of armed robbery were reported to the ReCAAP ISC in Asia. These incidents took place off Pulau Cula, Indonesia, in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) of the Singapore Strait (SS). No injuries were reported among the crew, and while nothing was stolen in two of the incidents, engine spares were taken in one.
Incident Details
| Factor | Incident 1 | Incident 2 | Incident 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | 2.2 nm off Pulau Cula, Indonesia | 7.9 nm off Pulau Cula, Indonesia | 8.9 nm off Pulau Cula, Indonesia |
| Type of Ship | Bulk carrier | Chemical tanker | Bulk carrier |
| Date/Time | 7 May 2025 at 0245 hrs | 7 May 2025 at 0320 hrs | 7 May 2025 at 0403 hrs |
| Number of Perpetrators | 2 | 1 | 5 |
| Weapons Used | Knives | Not stated | Gun-like objects |
| Treatment of Crew | No injuries | No injuries | No injuries |
| Significance Level | CAT 3 | CAT 4 | CAT 3 |
| Items Stolen | Nil | Nil | Engine spares |
Rising Incidents in Singapore Strait
With the three armed robbery incidents reported in the Singapore Strait, a total of 50 incidents have occurred in the region since January 2025. The ReCAAP ISC issued an Incident Alert on 7 May 2025, urging the maritime community to stay vigilant. Vessels are advised to maintain a sharp lookout while transiting the area and report any incidents immediately to the nearest coastal State.
Actions for Maritime Stakeholders
The ReCAAP ISC also called on littoral States to enhance patrols and surveillance in their respective waters, respond swiftly to reported incidents, strengthen coordination, and share information on criminal activities and perpetrators involved.
Threat Level Re-assessment
Due to ongoing military operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, which have weakened their support base, the threat of abduction for ransom has been downgraded from “Moderate Low” to “Low.” The Philippine Coast Guard, in collaboration with other maritime security stakeholders, confirmed that there is no indication of an impending attack, and the likelihood of such incidents occurring has decreased.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
